This summer, Formula 1 will shine on the big screen with the new Hollywood film F1. Directed by the mastermind behind Top Gun: Maverick and starring Oscar winner Brad Pitt, the film promises to be spectacular. While some fans question whether the story accurately portrays reality, many team bosses are delighted that Formula 1 is getting a new showcase.
The new F1 film, produced by the acclaimed Jerry Bruckheimer, could have an unprecedented global impact on the sport’s popularity. This is the view of several prominent figures in the Formula 1 world, including McLaren CEO Zak Brown and Red Bull team boss Christian Horner. Brown believes that a popular Hollywood film could give the sport a massive boost. He refers to the impact that the iconic film Top Gun (1986) had on the aviation industry.
“I think a film will give Formula 1 much more exposure,” Zak Brown responded during a press conference in the run-up to the GP of China. “I think back to Top Gun – everyone wanted to become a fighter pilot after seeing that film. Probably the same will happen with car racing. A film will, in any case, appeal to a more diverse and younger fan base. That will naturally only increase the sport’s popularity.”
Revitalizing Formula 1
Red Bull Racing team boss Christian Horner was also enthusiastic about the film and its impact on the visibility of Formula 1. “It’s truly exciting,” said the Brit. “Jerry Bruckheimer is known for producing great films and from what we’ve seen so far, this film promises to be incredibly spectacular.” According to Horner, the film offers significant added value for the sport and its partners. “A whole new audience will be introduced to Formula 1. The way they’ve built the story aligns with the intense battles we’ve seen on the track in recent years.”
Formula 1 has grown significantly in recent years, partly due to the popular Netflix series Drive to Survive, which has attracted millions of new fans. The question is whether a Hollywood film can match that success. On social media, fans are skeptical. The fear predominates that F1 does not portray a realistic image of Formula 1 and approaches the sport too sensationally.
